The Senior Buyer owns strategic and tactical procurement for critical materials and services supporting production of Velo3D's Sapphire metal additive manufacturing systems. Operating in a high-mix, low-volume capital equipment environment, this role goes well beyond PO execution: you will develop commodity strategies, lead supplier negotiations, drive cost and risk reduction, and partner cross-functionally with Engineering, Operations, and Quality. The ideal candidate is analytical, self-directed, and comfortable making decisions with incomplete information in a fast-paced, growth-stage company where individual ownership has visible impact.
Responsibilities
Own end-to-end procurement for assigned commodities, including precision machined components, electromechanical assemblies, optics/lasers, sheet metal, weldments, and metal powders supporting production of Velo3D Sapphire metal additive manufacturing systems
Lead complex supplier negotiations focused on cost, lead time, quality, payment terms, and risk reduction; negotiate and administer long-term agreements (LTAs), MSAs, and NDAs
Develop and execute commodity sourcing strategies, including dual/second-source qualification and supply base rationalization
Perform should-cost analysis and total cost of ownership (TCO) modeling to drive fact-based negotiations
Drive cost-reduction and value-engineering initiatives in partnership with Engineering and Operations
Serve as escalation point for supplier performance, delivery issues, and quality concerns; lead corrective action and continuous improvement efforts using supplier scorecards
Ensure materials availability to support production plans in a high-mix, low-volume capital equipment environment while optimizing inventory investment
Maintain and improve purchasing data integrity in [ERP system] (pricing, lead times, MOQs, safety stock parameters)
Support make/buy decisions and new product introduction (NPI) sourcing activities
Conduct supplier site visits, business reviews, and audits as needed. Travel to our Fremont, CA office regularly, up to 10% travel.
Ensure sourcing activities comply with export control regulations (ITAR/EAR) where applicable
Mentor junior buyers and planners; contribute to supply chain policies, controls, and process improvements
Qualifications
5–8+ years of progressive procurement or strategic buying experience in a manufacturing environment
Proven track record leading supplier negotiations and managing strategic supplier relationships, including contract negotiation (LTAs, MSAs)
Strong understanding of supply chain risk management, inventory economics, and cost structures; experience with should-cost or TCO analysis
Advanced proficiency in ERP/MRP systems ([name system]) and Excel, including data analysis and scenario modeling
Ability to operate autonomously, prioritize in a fast-paced environment, and make sound decisions with incomplete information
Strong communication, influencing, and cross-functional stakeholder management skills
